Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Vegetarians & Vegans
While Arab people are traditionally thought of as full-blooded, red-meat eaters, the reality
is that for many of modest income across the region meat is a treat for high days and holi-
days. This fact, coupled with the influence of southern Indian cuisine introduced by large
expat communities of vegetarian Hindus, means that vegetable dishes appear more often
than might be expected on a restaurant menu.
In most Peninsula countries, mixed dining is common in more expensive or modern city restaurants. In
smaller establishments, men eat on the ground floor, while women and families eat upstairs in a section
reserved for them.
Vegetarian staples include many bean and pulse dishes such as soup,
fuul
(fava bean
paste) and dhal, or lentil stews. Chickpeas, either fried into felafel or ground into a paste
with oil and garlic
(hummus),
are a common supplement. Aubergines and okra are used in
many delicious stews, and salad vegetables are usually locally grown and organic.
EATING ETIQUETTE
Sharing a meal with Arab friends is a great way of cementing a newly formed friendship. But Peninsula eating
etiquette is refined and complex. Here are a few tips. Note that food is traditionally shared by all from the same
serving dishes, spread on a cloth on the floor, without the use of cutlery.
Pre-Meal
»
If you're eating in someone's house, bring a small gift of flowers, chocolates or pastries, fruit or honey.
»
Carry out your ablutions - it's polite to be seen to wash your hands before a meal.
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Don't sit with your legs stretched out - it's considered rude during a meal.
During the Meal
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Use only your right hand for eating or accepting food; the left is reserved for ablutions.
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Don't take the best part of the meal - such as the meat - until offered; it is usually saved until last.
»
Mind your manners - your host will often lay the tastiest morsels in front of you; it's polite to accept them.
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Don't put food back on the plate: discard it in a napkin.
Post-Meal
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It's traditional to lavish food upon a guest; if you're full, pat your stomach contentedly.
»
Leave a little food on your plate: traditionally, a clean plate was thought to invite famine.
